The Cynic’s Guide to Wine Tasting with Sunny Hodge

Hop Hideout’s 13th Birthday Special

• Date: Thursday 27th August 2026

• Time: 8:00pm – 10:00pm

• Cost: £35pp

• Location: Hop Hideout, Leah’s Yard.

S1 4HP

Thirteen years of Hop Hideout calls for something special. To kick off our birthday celebrations this August Bank Holiday, we’re thrilled to host award-winning wine author, broadcaster and wine bar owner Sunny Hodge for his acclaimed interactive session: The Cynic’s Guide to Wine Tasting.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by a wine list, wondered if expensive bottles are actually worth it, or just want to enjoy exceptional wine in a relaxed and welcoming space, this is the night for you. Sunny is on a mission to demolish wine snobbery, breaking down the science, the stories, and the myths behind the glass with unvarnished truth, science and plenty of humour. 

What to expect:

• Guided Tastings: A curated lineup of standout wines poured throughout the night from Czechia, Greece, China, Spain, Armenia and Georgia. 

• Myth-Busting: The real truth behind wine jargon, trends, and processes.

• Interactive Q&A: Ask the awkward questions you’ve always wanted to ask about wine.

• Birthday Vibes: Celebrating 13 years of great drinks and good times at Hop Hideout. 

• Buy a copy of his book, ‘The Cynic’s Guide to Wine Tasting’, 2026 winner of the Drinks Awards from the Guild of Food Writers. Have it signed on the night by the author!

Book: ‘The Cynic’s Guide to Wine’

Winner - Guild of Food Writers : Drinks Writer Award 2026

Winner - The Cateys: Wine and Spirits Ambassador Award 2026

Runner Up - Fortnum & Mason: Best Drinks Book 2026​

Whether you're a seasoned natural wine lover or a total novice who just knows what they like, come pour a glass and celebrate with us.